Thrombocytopenia In Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments

Thrombocytopenia in dogs is a condition where the number of platelets, also known as thrombocytes, circulating in the blood becomes too low. Platelets are important for the clotting process in a dog’s body and are essential for preventing blood loss. A low platelet count can lead to problems like spontaneous bruising and bleeding. Thrombocytopenia is a common condition in dogs, and as many as five percent of all dogs that come into veterinary hospitals have it. It can be a condition on its own, or it can be a sign of another underlying medical problem. If you see the signs of thrombocytopenia in your dog, you should see your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here is what you should know about the symptoms, causes, and treatments for thrombocytopenia in dogs.

Symptoms Of Thrombocytopenia In Dogs

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Although bleeding is a common symptom of thrombocytopenia in dogs, some dogs do not show signs of bleeding, and this largely depends on how low the platelet count is. There are other disorders that cause bleeding without causing a low number of platelets, so you should always check with your veterinarian so they can form a diagnosis. Here are a few other symptoms you might see in dogs who suffer from thrombocytopenia.

Fever

Lethargy

Loss of appetite

Weakness

Heart murmur

Small pinpoint sized areas of bleeding, usually in mucus membranes like inside the mouth

Bleeding under the skin, especially in the abdomen or groin

Blood in urine

Coughing

Pale mucus membranes

Black, tarry, or bloody stools

Excessive nasal mucus

Nose bleeds

Bleeding in the eyes

Wounds don’t heal

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Causes Of Thrombocytopenia In Dogs

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There are many possible causes of thrombocytopenia in dogs. Conditions that cause a decrease in platelet production in the bone marrow, cause too many platelets to be used in blood clotting, destroy platelets via the immune system, or remove platelets from the blood stream can all lead to thrombocytopenia. Here are a few specific causes of a low blood platelet count in dogs.

Treatment For Thrombocytopenia In Dogs

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Treatment for thrombocytopenia in dogs depends on the underlying cause. In cases where the platelet count is so low that it becomes life-threatening, a dog may need a blood transfusion. A full blood transfusion may be needed in cases of anemia. Some infections may be treated with antibiotics.

Some conditions such as immune-mediated thrombocytopenia where the immune system response is causing the problem, corticosteroids or other immunosuppressive drugs may be used. Cancers may be treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, or other techniques depending on where the cancer is located and how severe it is.

Most dogs can be treated for thrombocytopenia and have a good chance of recovery depending on how serious the condition is and the underlying causes. If you see the signs of thrombocytopenia in your dog, you should contact your veterinarian. Early detection is often a big factor when it comes to successful treatment.

Has your dog ever suffered from thrombocytopenia? How did you treat it? Let us know in the comments below!